Maslow’s theory of motivation was among the first models introduced that explained the impetus for our actions in terms of human needs. The concept shaped the future of humanistic psychology, which focuses on personal strengths, not just pathology.

Maslow’s theory has influenced the way we approach business, education, parenting, and relationships. His hierarchy of needs offers a blueprint for understanding the people around you.

The following overview provides background on the theory and tips for using these principles to motivate yourself and others.

Maslow’s Hierarchy of NeedsAbraham Maslow developed a model of motivation based on needs, organized from the most basic physiological requirements, through emotional needs, and culminating in the need to develop one’s innate potential.

The model is often depicted as a pyramid, with the baser needs at the bottom and the aesthetic needs at the peak. Maslow’s theory says our survival needs must be satisfied first. Only then are we motivated to fill our higher level needs.

Maslow included five sets of goals, or basic needs, in his hierarchy. They are physiological needs, safety needs, love needs, esteem needs, and the need for self-actualization.

Maslow acknowledged that satisfying our physiological needs was of primary importance. We require oxygen, water, nourishment, and sleep to survive. Other physiological drives, such as sexual desire and the urge to procreate and nurture our young are also included.

Consider the power of hunger, for example. When we are hungry, we find ourselves preoccupied with thoughts of food. The greater the hunger, the less ability we have to focus on anything else. Once the hunger is satisfied, we no longer think about food, because the need has been met.

Safety NeedsOur survival depends as much on remaining free from harm as it does on food and water. The need for safety goes beyond the physical. A sense of security is also required. Uncertainty about the stability of your job, for example, erodes your sense of security.

Love NeedsHumans are social creatures. We crave connection with others to varying degrees. Once our survival needs are met, we become aware of the need for love, affection, and belongingness.

In the absence of friends, we feel the need as loneliness. We long for a partner and perhaps children. We strive for acceptance among the groups we value, at work and in the community. Maslow points out that the love need requires both giving and receiving in order to be fulfilled.

First, we require a healthy degree of confidence and self-esteem. This means having a realistic regard for our abilities and achievements, knowing we have the skill – or the capacity to acquire it – to successfully handle events in life.

Second, we desire respect and recognition from others, again based on a realistic assessment of our accomplishments and character.

As these needs are met, we are strengthened and motivated to move forward, toward greater levels of accomplishment, personal development, and well-being.

Parenting and teaching resources make this a central theme. Knowing that others believe in her ability motivates the student to work hard at developing her skills, and helps build her self-confidence.

The Need for Self-ActualizationThe process of becoming everything you are capable of being is called self-actualization. Maslow believed that what we can be, we must be. To stifle ourselves in doing what we are best suited for leads to discontent and restlessness, and a basic dissatisfaction in one’s life.

These potentialities, as Maslow called them, often lean toward the creative. Musicians, artists, writers, and dancers, for example, are engaged in self-actualization.

However, potential can take other forms as well, such as athletic ability, mathematical aptitude, strong interpersonal skills, or a gift for working with nature.

In some people, the drive toward self-actualization takes other forms. Any aspect of personal development and learning can be viewed as part of the process. Actualizing your potential is a kind of individual evolution.

At the end of the journey, you are enriched, and thus have a depth and breadth of experience and understanding to offer back to the world.

Putting the Hierarchy to WorkThe value of Maslow’s theory lies in how easily it can be applied to your interactions with others. Understanding motivation can enable you to strengthen your relationships, work more effectively with business associates, become a more capable parent, and facilitate positive change in any group.

Try some of the following applications in which you might use your new knowledge.

Meeting Physiological Needs

Arrange for refreshments when organizing meetings. The work will be more productive if participants are not thinking about the breakfast they missed or craving a cool glass of water.

Postpone important discussions with your spouse until after dinner, or after a good night’s sleep.

Avoid making late evening phone calls to round up volunteers for your church or school committee. People are more charitable with their time and resources when they feel refreshed and energetic.

Hungry, tired children tend to be uncooperative. Plan important events during times when the family is fed and well rested.

Meeting Safety Needs

Help your child adjust to new people and situations by reinforcing his sense of security. The unknown can be frightening. Your reassurance will help him feel safe and bolster his confidence.

Approach conflict with a positive attitude. Others are less likely to become defensive when they do not feel threatened, allowing a productive discussion to take place.

Acknowledge the unease you may experience when facing job transitions or financial reversals. Maslow’s theory implies the importance of taking steps to stay grounded and marshal your coping resources.

Maintain connections with friends, no matter how hectic life becomes. Even brief visits or telephone conversations have a positive effect on mood, stress, and self-esteem. Remind yourself that you are valued by your cohorts.

Build a stronger team by encouraging friendships in the workplace. Studies show that workers are more productive and more invested in their performance when they feel they are welcome and necessary to the group.

Say “I love you” to someone every day. Welcome hugs and signs of affection. Keep the channel open to nurture and be nurtured by those around you.

Meeting Esteem Needs

Motivate your child to develop intellectually and socially by focusing on his strengths. By pointing out past successes, you will help your child see himself as a capable individual.

Make a practice of catching your spouse doing something right. Noticing his positive contributions encourages more involvement and lets him know you hold him in high regard.

Honestly evaluate your strengths and accomplishments. Self-respect comes from a realistic sense of being the best you can be. Resolve to make improvements, but don’t let negativity detract from the value of your strengths.

Meeting the Need for Self-Actualization

Provide your children with opportunities to explore their interests and develop their talents. Deep contentment comes from doing what one is best suited to do.

Encourage employees to engage in personal development, even if it is unrelated to work. Maslow’s theory suggests that the growth that occurs in any area will generalize to all other areas of a person’s life.

Take time on a regular basis to read, study, or participate in a new skill or area of interest.

Maslow’s theory provides a comprehensive means of understanding your own motivation, and dealing more effectively with others. Recognizing that unmet needs are the most powerful motivating force, you can enhance your effectiveness as a parent, partner, and professional.

Are You Extrinsically or Intrinsically Motivated?Motivation gives us a reason to get out of bed each morning. Do you really know what motivates you? When it comes to extrinsic vs. intrinsic motivation, do you know which you rely on the most? Take the quiz to discover what influences you the most, internal factors or external rewards.

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